A CONSERVATIVE MP who was stabbed multiple times in his constituency has died - as police have confirmed a man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.

The MP for Southend West, Sir David Amess was stabbed in his consituency of Southend West at around midday on Friday.

He had been holding a surgery at Belfairs Methodist Church when the incident happened in Eastwood Road North in Leigh-on-Sea.

Read more: Conservative MP is stabbed 'several times' - police confirm man arrested

A man reportedly ran into the church in the last hour, before the MP was stabbed "several times," according to the News Shopper.

The Northern Echo:

Confirming the news this afternoon, Essex Police said: “A man has been arrested on suspicion murder after a man was stabbed in Leigh-on-Sea.

“We were called to an address in Eastwood Road North shortly after 12.05pm today. We attended and found a man injured.

“He was treated by emergency services but, sadly, died at the scene.

“A 25 year-old man was quickly arrested after officers arrived at the scene on suspicion of murder and a knife was recovered.

“He is currently in custody. We are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident.”

The Northern Echo: Picture: PAPicture: PA

'Terrible crime'

The death of Sir David has led to a huge outpouring of support, with politicians from across the region and parties paying tribute to a "kind and gentle" character.

Meanwhile, MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, Simon Clarke described Sir David as a "delight" to be around.

'Every MP knows that it could have been them'

Also tweeting her support, former Labour MP for Darlington, Jenny Chapman said Sir David was the "kindest" of colleagues.

Labour MP for Durham, Mary Foy, said "nobody should ever lose their life while doing their job."

The Jo Cox Foundation, which was set up following the death of Batley and Spen MP Jo Cox, tweeted that it was "horrified" to hear of the news of the stabbing. 

They said: "The Jo Cox Foundation is horrified to hear the news of the attack on Sir David Amess MP. We are thinking of him, his family and loved ones at this distressing time."

National figures offer condolences

Also paying tribute to a "hugely kind and good" character, Carrie Johnson, the Prime Minister’s wife, tweeted: “Absolutely devastating news about Sir David Amess.

“He was hugely kind and good. An enormous animal lover and a true gent. This is so completely unjust. Thoughts are with his wife and their children.”

Secretary of State for Transport Grant Shapps described Sir David Amess as “a true parliamentarian”.

He tweeted: “Awful, tragic news about David.

“A dedicated, thoughtful man and a true Parliamentarian, who lost his life while serving the constituents who he worked relentlessly for throughout his career.

“My thoughts are with his family and friends at this time.”

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon tweeted: “Elected representatives from across the political spectrum will be united in sadness and shock today.

“In a democracy, politicians must be accessible and open to scrutiny, but no-one deserves to have their life taken while working for and representing their constituents.”

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